Newark Balkan Chorus

The Newark Balkan Chorus Revived

Picture coming soon

Instructor:Elly Barksdale

The Balkan Chorus was a cultural and musical enrichment activity that changed the lives of the participants, school and community of Newark from 1994 to 2005. The Newark Street School Afterschool Program wanted to offer the present middle school students at Newark Street School the opportunity to experience the culture, language, and music of the Balkans once again. This was also an opportunity to honor the legacy of Evanne Weirich, a former teacher at the school and the original chorus director. The Balkan Chorus Revived meets twice a week after school and includes students in grades 4 – 8. It brings Balkan music and cultural traditions back to this small rural school where music education resources are limited, particularly for older students. This activity utilizes the community resources and is a unique example of place-based education, experiences that focus learning within the local community of a student. Former Balkan Chorus singer Elly Barksdale is the activity leader and a Newark resident. As a 7th grader, she was an original member of the Balkan Chorus. She has been able to connect students with this emotionally stimulating and mesmerizing music.

To purchase a CD or cassette please contact the Newark Street School office...